Celebrating the Essential Contributions of Employees with Disabilities to the Nation's Workforce

Honoring Workers with Disabilities

SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit organization, proudly celebrates the remarkable contributions of employees with disabilities. This initiative not only highlights their invaluable role in supporting the federal government and enhancing the economy but also underscores the ongoing need for advocacy in advancing employment opportunities for these individuals.

As the country observes its 250th anniversary, it serves as a poignant reminder of pivotal historical moments, such as the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 1990. This landmark legislation established crucial protections against discrimination for individuals with disabilities across various aspects of public life, particularly in employment. Despite the advancements since the ADA's enactment, a staggering 63% of working-age individuals with disabilities in the United States remain unemployed today.

SourceAmerica plays a critical role in addressing this disparity through the AbilityOne Program. This initiative effectively creates job opportunities for people with disabilities via federal contracts for products and services. Notably, employees within SourceAmerica’s network contribute significantly to vital tasks such as manufacturing military uniforms, delivering mail to service members, and even lending their support to NASA missions. Their work not only fulfills essential roles but exemplifies dedication and hard work deserving recognition and support year-round.

Richard Belden, president and CEO of SourceAmerica, remarked, "Individuals with disabilities occupy essential and meaningful positions, from supplying our troops and maintaining military vehicles to aiding various missions. While we celebrate their contributions during July, we must strive to advocate for broader employment opportunities throughout the entire year."

The necessity for inclusive employment cannot be overstated, as it empowers adults with disabilities to support their families, build social connections, and enjoy the fulfillment that comes from being active contributors to their communities. The AbilityOne Program stands as one of the largest sources of employment tailored for individuals who are blind or live with significant disabilities. Currently, more than 41,000 employees with disabilities, including over 2,800 veterans, engage in work across AbilityOne contracts in all fifty states, Washington D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico.

To enhance the job-seeking process, individuals with disabilities can utilize the SourceAmerica Job Board to craft resumes at no cost, access numerous free skills-based training courses, and apply for positions offered by the AbilityOne network and various other employers nationwide.

SourceAmerica continually demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between contractors and federal agencies, providing the necessary resources for success within the AbilityOne Program. By focusing on both awareness and advocacy, SourceAmerica aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities are recognized and offered opportunities that enable them to flourish in the workforce.

For more information on how SourceAmerica aids in creating impactful job opportunities, please visit SourceAmerica.org and follow them on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.com (formerly Twitter).